Region

Seoul

Korea's capital pairs 600-year-old Joseon palaces like Gyeongbokgung with neon nightlife in Hongdae and Gangnam. A single T-money card covers the world-class subway, so you can hop from a hanok alley in Bukchon to a night market in one ride.

Getting thereIncheon (ICN) and Gimpo (GMP) airports both link to the city by AREX train and subway; central hubs are Seoul Station, Myeongdong, and Hongik University.
How long to stay3โ€“4 days covers the palaces, Bukchon/Insadong, a night market, and a shopping district, with time for a day trip.